Thank you for the additional information. Poor kitty, sounds like he is pretty itchy, and that this bump is a little tender. Since he spends some time outside, there are several possibilities. First would be a bite wound from another kitty, which may be infected. This can be pretty uncomfortable, and often needs antibiotics to clear up. Some need to be drained, but because it is so painful, it is best done by a vet where pain medicines and mild anesthetic drugs can be given as needed. An e-collar is often necessary to keep kitty from trying to lick the wound as this can make it worse and lengthen healing time.

Another possibility, depending on the climate you live in, would be that your kitty was bitten or stung by an insect. Obviously if it is very cold where you live, this is very unlikely. Some bug bites or stings can cause very severe allergic reactions, so keep a close eye on your kitty. If you see any facial swelling, hives (will look like tufts of hair sticking straight up all over), vomiting or diarrhea, your kitty will need to see an emergency vet right away as an allergic reaction is likely.

Also possible would be an illness that is changing the skin and hair coat of your kitty, or maybe his anal glands are full and aren't expressing normally. If the glands are full and uncomfortable, a kitty will sometimes lick and bite at the base of the tail (I know you haven't seen any of this but I mention this possibility to be thorough). Some illnesses to watch for can include diabetes, kidney disease and hyperthyroidism. They are more common in older cats and can drastically change the hydration status and skin and hair coat condition, sometimes resulting in lesions. Yet another possibility is that you kitty has a growth at the base of the tail that has been uncomfortable, and this may or may not be cancerous.

I know that it is New Years Eve, and your kitty will need to be seen.....but as long as he is moderately comfortable, eating and drinking and able to use his litter box without any problems, he can likely wait until tomorrow or maybe friday. If it appears that he is extremely uncomfortable and cannot rest, or you are very worried you can take him to an emergency vet just to be sure. Please let me know if I can be of further assistance. If this has been helpful, please hit the green accept button. Good luck with your handsome man, I hope he feels better soon. Happy New Year, be safe!!!

What Customers are Saying:

The response from the Expert literally saved my cat's life. Thank
you from the bottom of my heart -- I will recommend all of my friends to you!!!
LuciaRincon, Georgia

I will use your service again. I was very pleased with the response and the fact that you have a low cost option so that those of us on fixed income can have questions answered. I will also recommend you to others.
KarenJackson Heights, NY

You helped us to come to what we believe is a better next step in Jack's treatment, and hopefully have saved us $800!!
Thanks again!Jack's MomTuscon, AZ

The vet said that the information and my following it will be what made the difference. Thanks again for being so very helpful.TracyGrayson, LA

My oldest male cat had a seizure this evening. This site was the first place I could think of to go after the seizure had passed. Dr. Lucy was fantastic and she was spot on! DebbieUSA

I must tell you I found this site by accident and was amazed when I asked a question of the Veteranians online. I wish I could have found it sooner it could have made such a difference in the outcome of my pet's surgery. However, I am passing along the information to my sister-in-law (a cat-rescue person who is also a nurse), and perhaps it will help someone else who may experience the same problem.
The doctor who answered my question was amazing, and while it didn't come it time to change the outcome of my situation, it is reassuring to know the caliber of Vets/Doctors that you have at JustAnswer. Thank you for being there.Alice H.Jacksonville, Fl.

Ask a Cat Vet

Get a Professional Answer. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed.

53 Cat Vets are Online Now

Type Your Cat Question Here...

characters left:

Disclaimer: Information in questions, answers, and other posts on this site ("Posts") comes from individual users, not JustAnswer; JustAnswer is not responsible for Posts. Posts are for general information, are not intended to substitute for informed professional advice (medical, legal, veterinary, financial, etc.), or to establish a professional-client relationship. The site and services are provided "as is" with no warranty or representations by JustAnswer regarding the qualifications of Experts. To see what credentials have been verified by a third-party service, please click on the "Verified" symbol in some Experts' profiles. JustAnswer is not intended or designed for EMERGENCY questions which should be directed immediately by telephone or in-person to qualified professionals.